South African Airways is looking forward to a brand new year with brand new possibilities. We’d like to welcome you onboard as we soar to even higher heights in the year 2013!

This is also a special year for South African Airways as we are celebrating our one year anniversary to Beijing. This time, one year ago, SAA began flying our valued customers across the globe to this beautiful city to experience the very best that China had to offer. So if you didn’t make it there last year, get onboard one of our non–stop flights and experience Beijing for yourself.

2012 was a big year for South African sports with Hashim Amla reaching his first test triple–century for South Africa, Ernie Els clinching The Open title at Royal Lytham and a few medals that have become the nation’s pride. Not only did Chad le Clos beat Michael Phelps to gold in the Men’s 200m butterfly, but our one and only Natalie du Toit brought home her third gold medal at the Paralympics. Let’s not forget Oscar Pistorius, who made us proud by winning gold in the T44 Men’s 400m final. A big congratulation from the SAA team!

2013 is also off to an action’packed start with the Cape Town Cycle Challenge coming up at the beginning of March. What better time to start planning your trip? For everything you need, book with South African Airways on flysaa.com.

Until next time, travel safe!

DESTINATION OF THE MONTH – BEIJING

This month’s destination is none other than the beautiful city of Beijing, China. This very modern and exceedingly busy city has so much to do and see with numerous tourist attractions of both cultural and historical interest. With 1230 museums and more than 100 public gardens, there is something for every traveller lucky enough to visit.

And when you fly with SAA, you get to make use of the only non–stop service between South Africa and China with thrice–weekly services between Johannesburg and Beijing.

Our outbound flight departs from Johannesburg at 00:30 and arrives in Beijing same day in 14 hours and 20 minutes.

Our inbound flight departs from Beijing at 23:20 and arrives in Johannesburg at 09:10 on the next day, allowing passengers to comfortably connect onward with SAA domestic and regional flights.

The Beijing route is serviced with an Airbus A340-600, offering 42 Business Class and 275 Economy Class seats so book today and take flight!

Business Class

When it comes to comfort, we ensure that our Premium Class passengers enjoy only the best. SAA’s flat–bed seats lie at 180 degrees, allowing you to rest and relax with ease. Remember, SAA also offers fare specials for passengers flying from South Africa and Africa to Beijing.

Economy Class

SAA offers generously ergonomic Economy Class seats with a legroom standard that is well above the international norm. Each seat is equipped with an 8.6" PTV, allowing passengers to enjoy our wide selection of in–flight entertainment during their flight.

Voyager

As a member of The Star Alliance, Voyager members are able to earn and redeem their Voyager miles with other member carriers. Voyager Gold, Platinum and Life Time Platinum members are also entitled to benefits available to Star Alliance’s Silver and Gold members.

Airport lounges

When in Beijing, SAA provides complimentary access to Air China Business Class Lounges for Business Class travelers, as well as Voyager Gold, Platinum and Life–Time Platinum cards on the date of departure. These lounges offer snacks, showers, newspapers and a relaxed atmosphere, setting the pace for the journey ahead. But before you go, make sure you’re fully prepared...

*All fares are subject to availability and change due to currency fluctuations. SA Airways reserves the right to, at any time, change/discontinue these special fares and conditions without prior notice. Fares not available on South African Express and Airlink operated flights.

SHOWCASING SOUTH AFRICA – PORT ELIZABETH

When you fly to Port Elizabeth, you’re flying to the friendliest city in South Africa. Now more commonly known as Nelson Mandela Bay, it’s a place that’s rich in history and welcoming to all who are lucky enough to step foot on her shores.

Located at the end of the beautiful Garden Route, this city truly encapsulates the magnificence of Africa unlike any other South African destination. Whether it’s for business or a family holiday, Port Elizabeth is the place to be so book your tickets now and experience the wonders of this stunning city.

DON’T WASTE TIME, CHECK–IN ONLINE...

Avoid some of the day–of–departure stress. Before your next flight on SAA, make sure you take advantage of the many benefits of checking in online.

Did you know that you can get the check–in process out of the way before your journey even begins just by accessing your reservation using the "Manage My Booking" feature on www.flysaa.com. A valid confirmation number and a last name is all you’ll need to get started.

Here are some Online Check–in benefits:

•

You can check–in up to 24 hours prior to your flight’s departure

•

You can check–in online from your computer, laptop or any internet–enabled mobile device

•

With online check–in, you can choose your own seats and pre–seating is FREE on all SAA flights

Online Check–in is simple! Just 5 steps and you’re on your way. Click here to watch the demo and discover how easy it really is.

CAPE TOWN CYCLE TOUR

This year’s Cape Cycle Tour 2013 kicks off on the 10th of March, so if you’re planning to take on the challenge and work up a sweat at SA’s most popular cycle race, why not make your arrangements easily with SAA?

You’ll get great rates when you book with us. There are two three–night packages available, both including return flights, car hire and accommodation.

SAA UPGRADES OUR IN–FLIGHT FOOD MENU

Benny Masekwameng, Executive Chef of the Tsogo Sun Group and celebrated MasterChef South Africa judge, will create a range of signature dishes designed to tingle the taste buds of each and every one of our SAA passengers.

In keeping ahead of global food and beverage trends, SAA refreshes its food and beverage menu annually to offer a delectable menu selection, free of charge, which includes Halaal, Kosher and vegetarian options.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Chelsea Flower Show

The annual Chelsea Flower Show in London turns 100 this year. Join in with the many hoards of garden lovers to be dazzled and inspired by the spectacular blooms and garden designs. It’s Mother Nature at its finest, so book your flights and see it all for yourself!

PARTNER OF THE MONTH

Avis

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and love is in the air. That’s why we’re offering all SAA customers who rent an Avis vehicle through flysaa.com the chance to win one of ten complimentary weekend car rentals*because if you are happy, Avis is ecstatic. After all, you are the reason We Try Harder.